Timor-Leste President Advocates Unconditional Dialogue for Global Peace and Justice
In June 2025, Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta delivered keynote speeches and took part in important forums in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where he emphasized the vital role of unconditional dialogue in achieving global peace and justice. Drawing on Timor-Leste’s own history of colonialism, occupation, and eventual reconciliation, Ramos-Horta stressed that open, precondition-free communication is essential for resolving conflicts and promoting social justice worldwide.
He highlighted that peace must begin within individuals, stating that personal peace is a necessary foundation for global harmony. Ramos-Horta advocated for humanistic leadership and inclusive international dialogue as key elements in building lasting peace. His message reflected Timor-Leste’s transformative journey from decades of struggle to reconciliation, where the nation chose to honor the past without seeking revenge, focusing instead on moving forward together.
During his visit, Ramos-Horta also announced Timor-Leste’s imminent full membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), scheduled for the regional summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025. This milestone marks a significant step for the young democracy, which has worked steadily since its independence in 2002 to integrate into the regional community. The announcement was welcomed by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, underscoring the strong strategic partnership between Timor-Leste and ASEAN.
Ramos-Horta’s participation in the Global Leadership & Dialogue Initiative (GLDI) forum and related events reinforced commitments to ethical leadership, youth engagement, and inter-civilizational dialogue as essential pathways to sustainable peace. His engagements included an official fellowship dinner with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the launch of a book on global justice and peace through dialogue, highlighting the shared values and collaborative efforts between Timor-Leste and ASEAN nations.
Overall, President Ramos-Horta’s presence in Malaysia symbolized Timor-Leste’s dedication to promoting peace, social justice, and constructive dialogue on the international stage, while preparing to contribute actively to regional stability as ASEAN’s newest member.